Indica-based small car likely to launch by mid-2015.
Based on available spyshots, our in-house artist, Shoeb, has created a digital mockup of the upcoming Tata hatchback codenamed 'Kite'. Based on the Indica's platform, the Kite is reported to launch by mid-2015, and will spawn a compact sedan that will replace the now aging Indigo eCS.
The front fascia of the Kite sees bug-eyed headlights with a meshed grille, or what Tata Motors' design honchos refer to as the 'Humanity Line'. The side profile of the hatchback sees two design creases, and a rather straightforward design.
Under the hood, the Kite is reported to come powered by a 1.2-liter petrol and a 1.05-liter three-cylinder diesel engine. The latter is expected to make 64 bhp and 142 Nm of torque, and a 5-speed manual transmission will be fitted standard. Tata could choose to offer its automated manual transmission (AMT) on the small car as well.
Also read: Tata to launch 100 commercial vehicles by 2018
The Kite and the Kite-based compact sedan are reported to enter production at Tata's Sanand plant in Gujarat, which is under-utilized at the moment.
Competitors: Maruti Celerio, Ford Figo, Hyundai i10
Expected price: INR 3.5-5.5 lakh, ex-showroom
Launch date: By mid-2015 (according to reports)
